Trouble deciding on surgeon and surgical approach

Hi everyone,
I'm trying to decide between two well-regarded orthopedic surgeons in Chicago for a total hip replacement and could really use some perspective from those who've been through this.

My situation:

• I'm obese at 300 lbs, but carry it well. I have quite a bit of muscle and built like football lineman
• I have 20lbs to lose in order to hit my target BMI and be an anterior candidate
• This is for a primary total hip replacement
• I'm 50 and active, hoping for the best long-term outcome and recovery

The options:

• Dr. Vasili Karas at Rush
  • Does a mini posterior approach with robotic assistance (Mako)
  • Seems to be very high volume, doing up to 1000 surgeries per year from what I hear
  • 15 years exp.
• Dr. Michael Stover at Northwestern
  • Uses an anterior approach
  • Has decades of experience, particularly with complex cases
  • Seems like a more conservative surgeon but very respected
  • 35 years exp

My questions:

1. Has anyone had surgery with either of these doctors? What was your experience like?
2. What are your thoughts on mini posterior + robotics vs. anterior in terms of recovery, muscle sparing, and long-term success?
3. For larger patients, is one approach generally safer or more effective than the other?
4. Anything you wish you'd known before choosing your surgeon or approach?

Thanks in advance for your insight, this subreddit has been incredibly helpful as I research and prepare to take on this challenge.